5 Cyber Security Best Practices for Small Businesses to Avoid Cyber Attacks
Cyber security is essential for businesses of all sizes, especially, small businesses since they are usually less well protected and more vulnerable to cyber-attacks. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Report, the cost of cybercrimes in the 2020’s will exceed $2.7 billion.
Small businesses are tempting targets because they have information that attackers want. According to a recent Small Business Administration survey, 88 percent of small business owners believe their company is vulnerable to a cyber-attack.
Begin by learning about typical cyber threats, identifying areas of vulnerability in your company, and taking steps to improve your Cyber security.
Common Cyber Threats for Small Business
- Phishing
- Ransomware
- Malware
- Viruses
- Password attacks
- Traffic (network) Interception
- SQL Injection
Top 5 Cyber security best practices that will help protect your business from Cyber Attacks
We’re all in danger of Cyber Attack, and the stakes are enormous – both for your personal and financial well-being, as well as for your business’s reputation, finances, and continuation. The corporate breaches may get the headlines, but the majority of attacks continue to be against small and mid-sized businesses. It can happen to anyone, and that is why everyone is responsible for cybersecurity.
- Multi-factor authentication can save you from Hackers.
Multi Factor Authentication protects your sensitive data by adding an extra layer of security, making it nearly impossible for malicious actors to log in as you.
Even if a hacker knew your password, they’d need your second and maybe third “factors” of authentication, such as a security token, your phone, your fingerprint, or your voice. Always use Multi Factor Authentication to login into the devices, and make sure all employees are required to use it as well.
- Up to date Software can Save your Business from Cyber Attack
It’s vital to keep your operating system, programs, and application up to date. Always make sure your devices have the most recent security updates. Set your operating system’s automatic updates to On. Use web browsers that receive frequent, automated security upgrades, such as Chrome or Firefox. Make sure your browser’s plug-ins (Flash, Java, etc.) are up to date. This is a Key measurement for Cyber security as reputable companies such as Microsoft provide updates to plug vulnerabilities or correct issues.
- Beware of suspicious emails and phone calls to avoid phishing scams and vishing scams
Phishing scams are a persistent concern; cybercriminals will try to deceive you into giving personal information such as your login ID and password, banking, or credit card information by using various social engineering ploys. Phishing scams can be carried out via phone, text, or social networking sites, but email is the most typical method. Any official-looking email or phone call requesting personal or financial information should be avoided. Make sure all employees are well trained to recognize fake emails and potential voice or phone scams because one weak entry point can lead to a total system breach.
- A Strong Password management system will always protect you from Hackers
We all have too many passwords to keep track of, and it’s all too tempting to take shortcuts like reusing the same password. A password manager can help you keep all your accounts’ passwords strong and unique. These tools can generate secure passwords, automatically enter credentials, and remind you to change your passwords on a regular basis, creating a greater challenge for malicious actors. A greater challenge is too much trouble and will keep Cyber attacks from happening.
- Keep a tab on your tab.
Avoid going to unfamiliar websites or downloading software from untrustworthy sources. These sites frequently contain malware that will secretly install and corrupt your machine. Do not click on any attachments or links on the site if they are unexpected or questionable for any reason.
Institute, three out of every five small businesses have been victims of a cyber attack in the last year, and one out of every three believe they are unable to defend themselves. PamTen’s Free Risk Assessment will calculate your risk factor and help your business by protecting it from all cyber attacks and ensures your cyber security. And following these basic steps will set you on the right track for protecting your data.
